Due to the heavy rainfall forecast on already flooded ground, Great Western Railway (GWR) is advising people against starting their journey by rail. 

The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning from 12pm on Thursday with rainfall expected to travel in a north-east direction across the south of England, lasting until 3am on Friday.

It added there is a “small chance” that communities could become cut off by flooded roads.

Those who have already travelled should consider making the return journey as soon as possible, GWR advises.

With further flood warnings n place and the amount of rain forecast, Network Rail has identified key sites in Wiltshire, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall as being at risk of flooding from around 1500. Trains may not be able to operate through these areas. 

The direct route between Swindon and Bristol Parkway remains closed due to flooding.

Other locations most at risk include sites between: 

  • Swindon and Bristol Temple Meads 
  • Newton Abbot and Plymouth 
  • Exeter and Tiverton 
  • Bristol Temple Meads and Western-super-Mare 
  • Taunton and Westbury  

Services between London Paddington and Swindon will continue to operate but may be affected by flooding elsewhere. 

Customers with tickets for trains later today can use their tickets for earlier services.  

Disruption is expected until the end of the day.